Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by pain, tingling and numbness in your hands. These symptoms can be the result of any undue pressure applied on the median nerve on your wrist, says WebMD.
Symptoms
Not sure if you have carpel tunnel or just normal soreness and wrist pain? If you are dealing with any of the following symptoms, chances are you have CTS:
Mild Symptoms
- Your pain, forearm or wrist is numb to the point that it wakes you up at night.
- You keep feeling the numbness or “pins and needles” sensation in your hand.
- You feel the pain or numbness getting worse while you go about your everyday activities or tasks. The pain intensifies when you try to bend or flex your wrist.
- Your fingers feel stiff every morning.
Moderate Symptoms
- You have trouble with simple hand movements.
- You have no pinch strength left and have a hard time pinching an object with your thumb and first finger.
- Your thumb muscles are noticeably weaker.
Possible Treatment
If you find yourself dealing with any of these symptoms, it’s best to look for a pain management doctor to help you find the right treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. While exercises, splints, better wrist care and home remedies might help, consulting with a doctor is the best way to move forward. Don’t self-prescribe or medicate. Keep in mind that there could be other causes or conditions behind the pain in your hands. It could also indicate damage or injury in your ligaments, bones or tendons. That or it could involve nerve problems or be early signs of arthritis in your joints. By consulting with a doctor, you’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with. This way, you sure to receive the right treatment.